"Steady Eddie"
History
Descendants of the Grand Bleu de Gascogne and English Foxhound, Bluetick Coonhounds were originally classified as English Coonhounds. In 1945, Bluetick breeders broke off on their own because English breeders were tending towards fast, “hot-nosed” hunters. Blueticks are the pride of larger, slower and more resolute “cold-nosed” breeds, meaning they can pick up older, cold scents, and were recognized by the AKC in 2009.
Temperament
Loveable, goofy and devoted, Bluetick Coonhounds are always game for a walk, chase or romp. Most enjoy car rides, and will want to ride shotgun in your pickup truck. They are extremely athletic and hardy but they’re easily distracted and are happiest if they have a full time job such as hunting, obedience or agility. They can be loudmouths, with their long, drawn out “bawling” bark.
Appearance
Big brown eyes, floppy ears and droopy lips give Bluetick Coonhounds their lovable appearance. They get their name from the black-and-white ticking which creates a navy blue appearance in their short-to-medium, glossy coat. Most will have black spots, and a predominantly black head and ears, with some having tan on their faces and over their eyes. They are sturdy and muscular with a long muzzle, big, floppy ears, and a thin pointy tail.
Training
Relentless problem solvers with selective listening skills when they’ve smelled something interesting, Bluetick Coonhounds can be challenging to train. But their intelligence also means that once you’ve got their attention and respect, they are very mindful of their owners. So if you’re up for a challenge that will pay off, training a Bluetick might be right up your alley.
Grooming & Care
Their short-to-medium, glossy coats need weekly brushing, and the occasional bath is a must, especially if they’ve been chasing something along a muddy trail. Ears should be checked weekly and cleaned when necessary to keep them healthy. They are known to have a musty or “houndy” scent which you won’t completely be rid of.
Health Concerns
Bluetick Coonhounds are a generally healthy breed, but they can be prone to cataracts and hip dysplasia. Choose a breeder who can show documentation that both parents have healthy hips whenever possible. As a deep-chested breed, they may also be prone to bloat.
Famous Bluetick Coonhound
Tet from the 1980s TV show “Airwolf;” Old King from the Neil Young song; Old Blue from the 1960 film “Old River."
Ideal Owner | |
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Activity Level | Active |
Schedule | Part-time or willing to hire a dog walker |
Personal Style | Easygoing and casual, Outdoorsy |
Training Style | Firm, Positive |
Home | Not recommended for apartment life |
Children | Any age is fine |
Experience | Hound experience preferred |
Quick Facts | |
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Size | Large |
Grooming | Check ears frequently |
Exercise | Very high - this breed loves to run and needs vigorous daily workouts |
Training | Learns well but bores easily |
Temperament | Loyal, Affectionate, Friendly, Intelligent |
Challenges | They follow their noses. Secure all food, garbage and interesting possessions, and be sure to keep them on-leash in usafe areas. |
Height | 21 to 27 inches |
Weight | 45 to 80 pounds |
Life | 12 to 14 years |
Home Alone | Bores easily and can get into mischief |
With Kids | Fine with older kids |
With Strangers | Friendly |
Availability | Available, so choose your breeder carefully |